Herbert’s first true preseason action of 2025 yielded a flash deep shot to Quentin Johnston before a frightening moment sent the rookie to the sideline. Johnston’s exit comes with the Chargers already juggling injuries and a shaky August lead-in, making every rep crucial for a rookie entering a crowded WR room. Rashawn Slater’s season-ending blow earlier in the summer worsens the depth chart questions up front, amplifying early-season concerns about pass protection and receiver timing.

With Johnston banged up and the WR pecking order thinner behind Keenan Allen, fantasy managers will watch closely how the Chargers allocate targets in the coming weeks. If Johnston misses time, Joshua Palmer and other depth options could pick up meaningful volume early, reshaping interim projections in LA. The Rams defense responded with physicality, and a hard hit from Tanner Ingle underscored the physical stakes of this game.

Overall, the episode reinforces a practical fantasy takeaway: early August injuries and unexpected preseason lulls can shift depth charts quickly. Johnston’s health will dictate whether he anchors the Week 1 role or if others absorb the early targets, while the Chargers’ o-line health will influence Herbert’s ceiling in the opening weeks.